By Everson Luhanga
It’s called “express kidnapping”. Victims are abducted, robbed, and released within hours, with criminals targeting just about anyone for quick money. And it’s on the increase.
Express kidnappers usually demand an immediate ransom, often by forcing victims to withdraw money from their ATM accounts or forcing them to open their banking apps to transfer funds electronically.
“The kidnapping often ends when the victim can no longer withdraw money. But not always,” said Richard Hood, CEO of insurance broker OLEA South Africa.
“Everyone is a potential target. Kidnappers change the ransom demands according to what they think the victim, or their families, can afford,” he said in an article published in Business Tech.
Most cases of express kidnapping in South Africa are a side-effect of carjacking, robberies, and rape, but crime experts say an increasing number of victims are now being singled out directly.
“Professional syndicates focus on smooth transactions, and victims suffer less. However, copycat counterparts are more violent,” Hood said.
This form of kidnapping for ransom has increased, with over 15,000 cases reported in 2022-23. Gauteng had the most cases (7,818), followed by KwaZulu-Natal (3,081).
The Institute for Security Studies reported a 260% increase in kidnappings over the last decade, and there are now an average of over 50 a day.
Justin Naylor, CEO of insurance firm iTOO, said the kidnappings are often linked to organised crime like human trafficking and drugs.
“It’s no longer just the wealthy being targeted; anyone with access to money is at risk,” said Naylor.
Insurance companies are responding to the spike in kidnappings by offering specialised products to help manage the risks and costs. But Naylor warned that people should still avoid dangerous areas and take precautions, even if they have insurance coverage.
On 31 July, police arrested eight kidnappers in Johannesburg, rescued a businessman and seized R300-million worth of drugs after the gang demanded a R5-million ransom.
Pictured above: Justin Naylor, CEO of insurance firm iTOO, said kidnapping is now a major issue in South Africa, with almost 16,000 kidnappings being reported every year.
Full Story Source: ‘Express kidnappings’ growing fast in Mzansi
